Fes 3 Day Itinerary

3-Day Itinerary for Fes:

This itinerary focuses on exploring the highlights of Fes’s medina and beyond. Feel free to adjust it based on your interests!

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of the Medina & Traditional Crafts

  • Morning: Arrive in Fes and check into your riad (traditional Moroccan guesthouse). Some popular options for accommodation include:
    • Riad Dar Nejma: Beautiful and charming, with a rooftop terrace offering stunning views.
    • Riad Rcif: Charming, affordable riad in a quiet location within the medina.
  • Daytime: Get lost in the vibrant alleyways of the medina, immersing yourself in its unique atmosphere.

Must-see sights:

  • Explore the Medina: Wander through the narrow streets and bustling markets (souks) of Fes el Bali, the ancient city.

    • Lunch: Grab a delicious and traditional lunch at Restaurant Dar Roumana in the heart of the medina. Their tagines are a must-try!

  • Tannery: In the afternoon, experience the fascinating (and smelly!) tanneries of Fassiyat, a renowned leather tanning district within the medina. Witness the ancient process and watch artisans work their magic on the hides.

Activities:

  • Visit the Chouara Tannery: This is a popular destination for tourists due to its unique sight and traditional techniques.
  • Explore the Medina: Wander through the labyrinthine alleys of the medina, taking in the sights and sounds of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Food:

  • Dinner at Restaurant Dar Zerhoun: Enjoy authentic Moroccan cuisine while experiencing the charm of a traditional riad setting.

Day 2: History, Architecture & Spirituality

  • Accommodation: Stay in a charming riad within the medina to be close to the action and immerse yourself in the local culture.
  • Morning: Explore the stunning architecture and history of Fes’s ancient Jewish quarter, known as the Mellah. Admire the tanneries from afar, perhaps visiting the Tannery Museum for a closer look.

Daytime & Afternoon:

  • Visit the Al-Attarine Madrasa: This 14th-century masterpiece is a must-see for its intricate carvings and serene courtyard.
  • Explore the Bou Inania Madrasa: A beautiful example of Marinid architecture, with ornate decorations and a peaceful atmosphere.

Things to do:

  • Wander through the bustling souks (markets) of the Mellah and explore the traditional crafts like pottery, leatherwork, and textiles.
  • Visit a local artisan: Engage with a craftsman at their workshop in the Medina.

Food:

  • Lunch at Chez Saïd: Indulge in delicious Moroccan cuisine while observing the skilled artisans at work.

  • Dinner at Cafe Clock: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and try their famous Harira soup, a traditional Moroccan soup, perfect for a warm evening.

Things to know:

  • Prepare for a sensory overload: The medina is a maze of narrow streets packed with shops, stalls, and workshops selling everything from spices and leather goods to pottery and carpets.
  • Haggling is expected: Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices when shopping in the souks. Start low and be prepared to walk away if you can’t reach an agreement.

Things to do:

  • Bargain for souvenirs: The Medina is a great place to find unique and handmade gifts.

  • Explore the historic mosques and synagogues: The tannery, Bou Inania Madrasa, and the Chouara Tannery are all within walking distance of each other.

  • Things to remember:

    • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

  • Visit the tanneries:

    • Learn about the traditional process of tanning leather in the Medina.
    • Be prepared for the smell and the crowds!

  • Visit the Bou Inania Madrasa & Mosque: This architectural gem showcases stunning examples of Moroccan craftsmanship, with intricate carvings, colorful mosaics, and vibrant courtyards.

Things to see:

  • The University of Al-Karaouine: Immerse yourself in history by visiting the oldest university in the world (still operational!).
  • The Mausoleum of Moulay Idris II: Marvel at the intricate details and architectural prowess of this historical site. *

Accommodation:

  • Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner while experiencing the local culture.

Day 3: History & Culture in the Medina

  • Explore the heart of the medina: Wander through the narrow streets and discover hidden treasures like the Bou Inania Madrasa, a historical masterpiece with stunning carvings and architecture.
  • Visit the Nejjarine Museum: This museum showcases traditional woodworking tools and techniques, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Things to see:

  • The Chouette Mosque: Located in the heart of the Jewish Quarter, this beautifully designed mosque is worth visiting for its unique architecture and history.

  • The Tanneries: A historical tannery site that showcases traditional

  • Things to do:

  • Visit the ancient tanneries: These are a sight to behold, with their vibrant colors and centuries-old practices.

  • Enjoy a traditional leather workshop: Immerse yourself in the art of leatherworking by watching artisans create beautiful goods.

Food:

  • Explore the Medina’s culinary delights: Try a delicious breakfast at your riad. Many offer traditional Moroccan breakfasts, which are a great way to start the day.
  • Enjoy a traditional meal: Sample local delicacies like tajine, couscous, or pastilla in the Medina.

Accommodation:

  • Consider a local cooking class: Learn how to prepare dishes like the iconic tagine, a slow-cooked stew served in a clay pot, and experience the culinary traditions of the region.
  • Visit the tanneries:
  • Learn about traditional leatherwork: The Tanneries are still a working tannery.

Things to consider:

  • Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking in the Medina.

  • Pack light: The streets and alleys can be crowded and narrow, making it difficult to navigate with heavy luggage.

  • Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and breathtaking beauty of the historic Medina.

Things to do:

  • Explore the ancient city: Wander through the bustling souks, wander the labyrinthine alleyways, and visit the historical medinas of Fes and Marrakech.

Other things to see in the Medina:

  • The Chouara Tannery: This is a fascinating place where you can watch traditional leather tanning methods in action.
  • The Ben Youssef Madrasa: A stunning example of the Islamic architecture in Marrakesh, with its intricate carvings and serene courtyard.
  • The ancient Jewish quarter (Mellah):

Explore the Jewish Quarter of Fes, and learn about their rich history and traditions.

Things to remember:

  • Respect: Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Food in the heart of the Medina:

  • Traditional food experiences:

    • Enjoy delicious street food like street-side couscous or grilled meat skewers, a popular option in the Medina.

  • The Moulay Saïd Tannery: Experience the beauty and history of traditional leatherworking in Fes.

  • Learn about the process: Traditional crafts are often practiced using techniques and tools passed down through generations.

  • Explore the Jewish Quarter: The Mellah, a vibrant district with historical significance, is a great place to experience the culture of the past.

Things to do in the medina:

  • Visit the Tanneries:
    Enjoy the sights and smells (literally!) of the leather trade.

  • Explore the tannery: Immerse yourself in the traditional process.

  • Remember:

    • The Medina is a maze of narrow streets, so it’s best to have a map or a guide.

  • Be prepared:

    • The Jewish Quarter, where you can find the tannery and learn about the history of leatherworking.

  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere: The Medina, with its historic architecture, bustling streets, and unique cultural experiences, is sure to leave a lasting impression. **

Other things to do in the medina:

  • Explore the bustling markets:

    • Haggle for traditional crafts like leather goods, carpets, and pottery, which are often found at local workshops within the Mellah.

  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Medina: Immerse yourself in the history and culture. **

Food:**

  • Try the local delicacies:
    Sample couscous, a staple dish in Morocco, in a traditional restaurant.

  • Experience the traditional food scene: Explore the culinary traditions of the medina.

    • Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Medina’s bustling atmosphere: Visit the local markets, enjoy the vibrant colors and textures of the leather, or explore the history of the ancient city.

  • Explore the traditional restaurants:

  • Enjoy the vibrant colors:

    • Enjoy the sights and sounds of the traditional markets and alleyways.

  • Immerse yourself in the history of the tanneries:

    • Learn about the ancient process of tanning leather.
    • Visit a traditional restaurant in the Medina:

  • Enjoy the traditional food:

  • Try the traditional delicacies:

  • Taste the flavors of the past:

The ancient craft of making leather goods is still practiced in the Leather Tannery, and you can even find workshops offering a hands-on experience for those interested in learning the traditional techniques.

  • Enjoy the cultural experience.
  • Explore the medina’s culinary scene:

Discover the rich history and culture of the Medina:

  • Visit a traditional restaurant: Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine, like the famous “tajine”,

  • Sample the traditional food:

    • Enjoy the sights and sounds of the traditional markets while savoring the delicious flavors.

  • Try the local delicacies:

    • Explore the Mellah’s history:

  • Visit a traditional Moroccan restaurant:

  • Taste the “couscous”, a staple dish, or enjoy the culinary variety offered in the markets.

Enjoy the experience:

  • The Medina is a great place to experience the culture of Morocco.

Explore the various souks and shops around the Medina.

This is just a small sample of what you can do and see, but it gives you a glimpse into the rich history and cultural experiences available in the traditional areas of Morocco’s cities.

  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere: Explore the medina,

where you can find traditional artisans who sell their crafts to local and international buyers.

These are just some ideas for exploring the traditional side of Marrakech, but remember, you can always adapt this itinerary to your own interests and time constraints.

  • Enjoy a cooking class: Learn about the traditional cooking methods

Enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the souks and try your hand at making leather goods:

  • Explore the vibrant culture of the Medina.

Food in the Medina:

  • Enjoy delicious street food: Explore the local cuisine.

  • Try the traditional “tajine”

  • Enjoy the variety:

Discover a range of traditional crafts and products, such as:

  • Leatherwork:

Visit the leather tanneries of Fes and Marrakech, and try your hand at making beautiful leather goods.

  • Traditional spices:

Explore the aromatic world of Moroccan spices.

  • Textile crafts:

Experience the vibrant colors and textures of the traditional textiles.

  • Leather goods: Explore a variety of beautifully crafted bags, shoes, jackets, belts, and other items made from leather.

  • Enjoy the local cuisine: Explore the history of the traditional “couriers”, which are workshops where artisans work on traditional crafts together.

Traditional:

  • Try the traditional “tanning process” for a unique experience:

You can learn about the different types of leather used in the traditional craft:

Enjoy your food experiences:

  • Explore the Mellah, and discover its history and culture.

  • Experience the vibrant “souks”** and their traditional crafts and products.

The bustling atmosphere of the Jewish Quarter, with its street vendors and traditional artisans, is a unique experience in itself.

  • Enjoy the bustling atmosphere**:

  • Explore the history of tanneries:

Discover the traditional process of the Moroccan “tanning” industry:

  • The process:

The traditional tanning techniques used by artisans are fascinating to watch.

Enjoy a variety of local crafts.

  • Enjoy the vibrant colors and textures of the souks.

Remember, the traditional craft workshops in the Medina often have strong smells and the use of traditional methods and tools may involve some interaction with them, such as experiencing the art of leatherworking.

Enjoy the experience!

Tips:

  • Bring a scarf or mask to cover your nose and mouth from the strong smell of the tanneries.

  • Wear comfortable clothes that you can easily move in.

  • Negotiate: Traditional artisans are often willing to negotiate prices, especially if you’re buying multiple items. Be respectful but firm in your negotiations.

The traditional craft of leathermaking is a fascinating one.

Enjoy the experience:

  • Take a tour: Many traditional crafts workshops offer guided tours and demonstrations. ** Enjoy the traditional food options like the “tajine”**, which are often prepared using traditional methods and techniques:

  • Traditional tanning processes:

  • Bring a scarf or mask to cover your nose and mouth from the dust and fumes.

It’s important to remember that these are just suggestions. There are many other things to see and do in the Medina, and you can always tailor your itinerary to suit your own interests.

Enjoy your visit:

Remember to enjoy the experience, as traditional Moroccan culture offers a rich tapestry of experiences for those who seek them. *

  • Explore the Medina:

  • Visit the local markets and see how these traditional crafts are made.

Traditional “Couscous”:

  • Visit the bustling streets:

  • Exploring the history of the craft:

  • Talk to the artisans:

Remember that the Things to remember:

  • Be prepared for a strong, pungent smell.

Bring a scarf or cloth mask to cover your nose and mouth during the initial part of the process when you are in the tanneries.

  • Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing lots of walking walking through the narrow alleys.

Other traditional crafts you might encounter:

  • Ceramics:

In the Mellah, learn about the traditional methods used to create beautiful ceramics, pottery, and tagine dishes**. *

**

What to do in the Medina:

Enjoy a variety of traditional experiences.

  • Learn the history of the “tajines” and see how they are used**:

  • Visit the traditional workshops:

You’ll find many traditional artisans making beautiful items like tagine dishes, pottery, carpets and rugs.

The process:

Traditional Marrakech’s tanneries are a sight to behold:

  • Learn about the different types of leather:

Explore the diverse range of leather goods produced in the traditional tannery. *

This is a great starting point for exploring the vibrant and historic world of Moroccan craft.

For the best experience:

Remember:

Enjoy the variety of traditional “tajines” and “A traditional leather tannery”:

Traditional crafts in the Medina:

Explore:

  • The bustling markets, where artisans sell their goods.
  • Experience the unique history of the Jewish Quarter.

**

Remember,

this is just a suggestion:

Explore the vibrant cultural scene:

You can visit a traditional tannery in Fes and enjoy the variety of goods they offer.

Other things to do:

  • Visit:

the bustling markets in Marrakech’s Jewish Quarter.

  • Enjoy the vibrant culture and colors of the Medina.

Consider:

  • Joining a tour:

Learn about traditional techniques:

You can also visit the Mellah, the historic Jewish Quarter, and observe the traditional methods of tannery work in traditional leatherwork

  • Enjoy the vibrant culture of the Tanneries:

Learn:

Try: *

Traditional tanning:

Exploring the Medina:

Traditional tanning:

Things to Remember:

Bring a tour:

  • Enjoy: the vibrant and traditional nature of the Mellah, Marrakech’s historic Jewish Quarter.

**

Remember:

To explore:

The experience:

Traditional techniques:

Traditional:

Enjoy a guided tour:

Explore:

  • The vibrant and bustling atmosphere of the Mellah.

**

Traditional Techniques:

Remember:

Learn about the history of the Jewish Quarter:

  • Tanning Process

Learning:

Traditional crafts are often sold in the Mellah, which is a vibrant part of the city.

To learn:

The traditional process:

  • Traditional Techniques:

Other things to consider: *

Exploring the Medina:

Remember:

**

Traditional:

  • Explore a variety of traditional leather goods:

Learn about the history:

Traditional tanneries:

Enjoy:

the vibrant and historical atmosphere of the Melies

  • Enjoy:

the bustling